俄罗斯旅游业迎来“中国年”

Core Points - The implementation of the visa-free policy for Russian citizens traveling to China is expected to significantly boost tourism and economic exchanges between the two countries [1][2] - Russian tourism professionals anticipate a surge in travel demand, with estimates suggesting a 30% to 40% increase in Russian tourists visiting China [1][2] - The policy is seen as a catalyst for the growth of the Russian tourism industry, with 2025 being referred to as the "China Year" [1][2] Tourism Industry Impact - The announcement of the visa-free policy has led to a rapid increase in online searches for travel to China among Russian citizens [2] - Many Russian travelers plan to allocate their previously saved visa costs towards enhancing their travel experiences, such as extending their trips and adding more activities [2] - Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi'an are expected to remain popular destinations, with hotel bookings in Beijing and Shanghai accounting for 46% and 28% respectively [2] Business Travel Growth - The visa-free policy is also expected to benefit business travelers, with a shift in the demographic of Russian visitors from primarily group tours to a mix of group and business travelers [4] - The number of direct flights between Moscow and major Chinese cities exceeds 100 per week, facilitating increased business interactions [4] - Business tourism is projected to grow by at least 20% as companies design travel products centered around exhibitions and corporate visits [4] Infrastructure and Marketing Developments - The Russian government is upgrading tourism infrastructure to accommodate the influx of Chinese tourists, including plans to build approximately 400 new hotels and 50 large tourism facilities by 2030 [5] - Efforts are underway to enhance payment systems for Chinese tourists, addressing issues related to payment methods abroad [5] - The "Explore Russia" brand has developed 11 unique travel routes tailored specifically for Chinese tourists, showcasing the diverse attractions of Russia [5]